Urgent warning to millions at high-risk of impending ‘tripledemic’ as 1 in 3 shun life-saving jabs

ONE in 10 adults with a common health condition are at high risk of the imminent ‘tripledemic’ of viruses, experts have warned.

The colder months will see several nasty infections rear their ugly heads, but Brits are being urged to protect themselves against the “big three” – flu, RSV and Covid-19.

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Some people are more at risk of getting seriously unwell if they catch one of the bugs, including people with respiratory disease, diabetes and those who are very overweight.

Around 2.2million Brits are now considered morbidly obese, which means their body mass index (BMI) is 40 or higher.

People who are morbidly obese are eligible for a free Covid and flu jab, under NHS guidelines.

Despite this, a new poll has revealed that 12 per cent of obese people (one in 10) have no plans to get the potentially lifesaving jabs.

When it comes to those with obesity, the study revealed 40 per cent are either unsure or unaware of what vaccinations they are entitled to from the health service.

While fewer than a quarter (24 per cent) of all adults know obese people are eligible for respiratory vaccines on the NHS.

The poll, which quizzed 3,000 adults, found (26 per cent) don’t think they need a respiratory vaccine, despite their underlying medical conditions.

And 21 per cent of these don’t think they work.

Despite this, half (52 per cent) of all those with a high-risk condition are worried about contracting an illness like flu or Covid-19 in the coming months.

Morbidity obese people are also at high risk of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), but are not currently eligible for free vaccinations through the NHS.

The research, commissioned by Moderna UK, aims to raise awareness of winter illness, and the preventative steps people can take to stay healthy during the colder months.

Professor Paul Gately, CEO of Obesity UK, said: “One group that often gets overlooked is people who are living with a BMI over 40.

“Many don’t realise they are eligible for these vaccines because their weight alone puts them at a higher risk for severe outcomes.

“Obesity impairs lung function, weakens the immune response, and increases the likelihood of inflammation, all of which can make respiratory infections more severe.”

The study, which was conducted via OnePoll.com, went on to explore how Brits are maintaining their wellbeing in the winter.

Eating healthily (78 per cent), keeping active (75 per cent), staying warm (75 per cent) and remaining hydrated (70 per cent) are the most common ways they plan to do so.

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But fewer than half (49 per cent) believe keeping up to date with vaccines for respiratory diseases is important.

‘Vaccinations are an important tool’

Dr Philip Cruz, country medical director at Moderna UK, said: “It’s important that people from high-risk groups prioritise their health, especially as we enter the autumn and winter seasons.

“Respiratory illnesses like Covid-19 and flu can be particularly dangerous for these high-risk groups, leading to severe complications and hospitalisations.

“Vaccinations are an important tool to help reduce these risks and protect the most vulnerable.

“As we head into winter, it is important people recognise the steps they need to take to stay healthy.

“Alongside essentials like eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest, checking if you’re eligible for respiratory vaccines should be a top priority.”